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7) Palm Springs

Palm Springs, about an hour drive from Los Angeles (LA), is a desert oasis vacation destination returning to its glory days as a Hollywood playground. Visit Wet ‘n Wild, a family oriented water park. It offers a giant wave pool, an interactive four-story family fun house, relaxing on the lazy river, and riding giant water tubes. Palm Springs also boasts world-class boutique hotels and some of the best discount shopping in the area. One of California’s ideal spring break destinations!

Yosemite National Park

6) Yosemite National Park

For the outdoor enthusiast, Yosemite National Park remains one of the best choices in Northern California. Yosemite’s spring time snow melt creates more luscious waterfalls and lakes without the summertime crowds. I would recommend staying at a hotel right in the park instead of driving in everyday. Hotels in the park sell out quickly in high season. During our family’s last visit we stayed at The Majestic Yosemite Ahwahnee, largely because it’s probably the most comfortable hotel in the valley to relax after a day of hiking, backpacking, kayaking and other outdoor activities. For those who enjoy a more rustic experience, there are lots of camping and outdoor lodging options available right in the park.

Image: From Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

5) Santa Cruz and Monterey

Adventurers can whale watch, hike through forests and kayak, or keep their adrenaline pumping on roller coasters and other thrill rides at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Santa Cruz tends to have lots of boutique style hotels/motels closer to the beach. Our last visit, we stayed at the Hotel Paradox. It’s a 10 minute drive from the beach but we enjoyed its more modern sleek designs and urban forest aesthetic. Go whale watching at Monterey Bay and check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium while you’re at it. For a taste of luxury, a romantic getaway or for golf enthusiasts, the Ritz Carlton at Half Moon Bay with its breathtaking ocean views, just 20 miles from San Francisco International Airport, is a great hideaway for Silicon Valley and San Francisco locals who need a weekend getaway close to home.